Theefabriek Possibly 1931

Isken’s photograph, ‘Theefabriek’ made in 1932, shows a factory that feels like a stage set. The monochromatic tones and the composition make me think about the material reality of industry and labor. It’s a process that feels very present in the image, it’s right there in front of us. If you look closely, you can see the weight of the tanks and the crisscrossing of pipes above—this isn’t just a depiction of labor; it’s a visual symphony of mechanics. The way the light glances off the metal and the way shadows define the volumes give this image a sense of depth, turning what could have been a flat industrial scene into a layered narrative. This makes me think of Bernd and Hilla Becher, who also documented industrial structures with a similar eye. Both artists embrace the beauty of these places, revealing the potential in the seemingly mundane. It’s a reminder that art can be found in the everyday, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.